The Student Leadership Awards were created by Dr. Dorothy Pijan in 1986 to recognize and honor Case's outstanding undergraduate student leaders. Dr. Pijan had worked at Case as the director of Thwing Center and Student Activities from 1982-2003. Dr. Pijan was a well-respected and nationally known student union professional. She had an incredible passion, drive and dedication to student leadership. After her death in 2003, the awards were named in her honor to recognize her many contributions to student life at Case Western Reserve University.